April 9, 2025
Home » Africa » Stray Lions Maul and Devour 20-Year-Old in Shocking Zambia Wildlife Attack 
A rural Zambian community devastated after a young man is killed by stray lions near Liuwa National Park.

Young Kalabo Man Mauled by Stray Lions: Community Reels from Devastating Wildlife Tragedy. (Photo/Gettyimages)

(EPICSTORIAN) – Kalabo, Zambia: In a harrowing incident, a 20-year-old man from Ilota village, Mulinga area in Liuwa Constituency, Western Province, was fatally attacked and devoured by stray lions.

The tragedy occurred on Monday evening around 7:00 PM, leaving the local community in shock.

Kalabo Police Officer In-Charge Humphrey Banda confirmed the incident, identifying the victim as Sitali Nyambe. Banda revealed, “The lions mauled and completely devoured the victim, leaving behind only his skull and an unidentifiable body part.”

The attack unfolded while Nyambe and a companion were tending to a vegetable garden near their village. According to Banda, the lions emerged unexpectedly, forcing the two men to flee.

While Nyambe attempted to escape toward the village, he was overpowered and killed. His companion managed to survive by taking shelter in a nearby hut.

Safely Mulala, Operations Ranger for Liuwa National Park, also verified the tragedy, describing it as a rare and alarming event for the area.

Nyambe’s remains have been transported to Kalabo District Hospital mortuary for postmortem and subsequent burial. Authorities have cautioned residents to exercise heightened vigilance, particularly during the nighttime, as the lions remain at large.

This incident has reignited calls for improved wildlife management in regions bordering national parks. Local leaders have urged wildlife authorities to act swiftly to prevent further loss of life and ensure safety for those living near protected areas.

Residents have expressed deep concern over the escalating human-wildlife conflict in Liuwa, emphasizing the need for intervention from both government and conservation agencies.

“This is devastating. We appeal to authorities to protect us from such dangers,” a community member remarked.

The Zambia Wildlife Authority has not yet issued a statement regarding the incident or the measures being taken to locate the stray lions.